2024 Hyundai Sonata Brake Light Recall Affects More Than 38,000 Vehicles

About 38,331 of the 38,331 recalled vehicles are estimated to be affected by a brake light issue.

In August 2024, Hyundai announced a recall for 2024 Sonata sedans due to a software error that may cause the brake lights to flash instead of staying illuminated when the driver presses the brake pedal- this can happen when braking above 31 mph.

• Recall Issue: A defect in the brake light system may cause the brake lights to flash and not illuminate properly, failing to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108 “Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment” requirements.
• Potential Causes: Faulty brake light switches, Electrical wiring issues, Manufacturing defects related to the brake light software
• Symptoms: Brake lights not turning on when the brake pedal is pressed, Intermittent brake light functionality, Warning lights on the dashboard
• Recall Solution: Dealers will update the rear brake light software and inspect the electrical wiring, free of charge.
• Contact Information: Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed by October 5, 2024.For more assistance, visit www.nhtsa.gov or call the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 and reference Campaign Number 24V-583.

What’s Wrong with the Hyundai Sonata Brake Lights?

Instead of providing a steady illumination when the brake pedal is pressed, the brake lights in affected vehicles may flash, particularly during heavy braking at speeds over 30 mph.

This problem stems from incorrect brake light software selection during manufacturing, a faulty brake light switch, or electrical wiring issues.

Hazards of Malfunctioning Brake Lights

Malfunctioning brake lights pose significant safety risks on the road. Here are some key hazards and symptoms associated with defective brake lights:

• Increased Risk of Rear-End Collisions: Faulty brake lights reduce visibility to drivers behind you, making it difficult for them to know when you are slowing down or stopping. This can lead to rear-end collisions, especially in heavy traffic or poor weather conditions.
• Confusion Among Other Drivers: Inconsistent or flashing brake lights can confuse other drivers, leading to misjudgments about your driving intentions. This confusion can increase the likelihood of accidents.
• Violation of Safety Standards: Malfunctioning brake lights do not comply with safety regulations, such as the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, which requires brake lights to provide a steady illumination when the brakes are applied.
• Legal Consequences: Driving with faulty brake lights can result in traffic violations and fines, as it is a legal requirement to have functioning brake lights.

Hyundai says that no injuries or crashes have been reported as a result of the Hyundai Sonata brake light issue.

Hyundai’s Solution for the Sonata Brake Light Problem

Owners of affected Sonata vehicles will receive a notification via mail instructing them to bring their vehicles to a Hyundai dealer for a rear brake light software update.

This service will be provided at no cost to the owners, regardless of whether their vehicles are still covered under Hyundai’s New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

In August 2024, Hyundai issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) to address the brake light problem in the 2024 Sonata.

Hyundai instructed dealerships to update the rear brake light software to ensure the brake lights provide steady illumination when the brake pedal is pressed.

Dealers will replace the faulty brake light switch if necessary. This switch is crucial for the proper operation of the brake lights.

Technicians will inspect the electrical wiring associated with the brake light system to identify and rectify any issues that may contribute to the malfunction.

Hyundai will notify owners of the affected vehicles by mail. The notification will include instructions on how to get the repair done at no cost.

The service procedure involves applying the parking brake, starting the engine, and pressing the brake pedal to access the stopper.

The stopper is mounted on the brake pedal, in-line with the stop lamp switch. Technicians will remove the old stopper and install a new one, ensuring the gap between the stop lamp switch and stopper pad is set to the correct specification.

For more information, owners can contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai drivers can also visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website at www.nhtsa.gov or call the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236. The NHTSA Campaign Number for this recall is 24V-583.

Recurring Brake Light Issues and the Lemon Law

If your 2024 Hyundai Sonata has required several repairs for the same brake light issue, you may be entitled to reimbursement or a refund under the Lemon Law.

Consulting with a lemon law attorney can assist you in evaluating your case and determining the best line of action to pursue relief for your vehicle’s ongoing troubles.

Affected Vehicle	Average Lemon Law Settlement
2024 Hyundai Sonata	$53,345

*Please note, the figures presented in the chart are approximations based on results from previous cases and should not be interpreted as a prediction or guarantee. Each case is unique and requires personalized legal guidance.

Considering pursuing legal options for issues with your Hyundai Sonata? Be sure to compile all relevant documentation.

This includes repair invoices, communication with the manufacturer, and any other evidence related to the problem.

Work with Experts in the Lemon Law Now!

If you are having problems with your 2024 Hyundai Sonata and have been unable to resolve them through your dealership or the manufacturer, finding legal help may be your next best option.

A skilled lemon law attorney can help you seek a refund, a replacement car, or financial compensation for the problems with your vehicle.

The Lemon Law Experts are here to help owners of damaged vehicles or “lemons” understand their legal options. Since 2009, our staff has been committed to delivering efficient legal solutions for a variety of automotive concerns.

We have a track record of effectively addressing lemon law issues for a variety of automotive manufacturers, including Hyundai.

Contact the Lemon Law Experts today to find out how we can assist you in resolving issues with your 2024 Hyundai Sonata.